There are many items that simply do not sell well at our auctions. This doesn't mean that the item is undesirable, it's just that there are things that our bidders aren't looking to buy at an auction. Our goal is to raise funds for the school to meet our operating budget requirement. We can only do that if we procure highly sought-after items.

That doesn't mean that we are only looking for expensive items. Sometimes the item that brings in the highest return is simply a gift card for a local store! The Auction Committee has to approve each procured item, and we do our best to work with each family to help them meet their procurement obligation. 

These items have traditionally not sold well at auctions due to restrictions and market demand. Please do not procure these items, as we are unable to accept them:

• Anything used. All items must be in new condition.
• Anything that requires an additional purchase by the winning bidder (i.e., a certificate good for a birthday party, but the winning bidder has to pay for ceramics).
• Software.  Microsoft products are wonderful, but because many of our families work at Microsoft, these items don't sell at our actions.
• Airline miles
• Books. The only books that we can accept in limited quantities are popular children's books that are currently in print. Check with us first!
• Martial arts classes
• Houseware items (dishes, platters, rugs, etc)
• Clothing. Ask for a gift card from the business instead!
• Professional services (Ask about our sponsorship opportunities!)
• Haircuts Consider getting a gift card that can be used for other spa services
• Financial, brokerage or insurance services Most firms will be happy to make a monetary donation and will be listed as a donor in our auction catalog.
• Dental and medical services  Most families have a favorite dentist or physician and these services are too personal to sell at the auction. Please consider asking for a monetary donation toward a sponsorship level. No teeth whitening, please.
• Photography sessions
• Items under $50 in value. Exception: We will be happy to accept gift cards under $50 in value.
• Books. Exception: Children's book sets that are currently in print.
• Gym memberships.

This list will be updated as we receive donations, so check the website often. For example, if we receive five gift cards to Wild Ginger, we will no longer be accepting them. Turn in your procurement early!

If you have any questions, email procurement@ows.org.

Pre-approval required for these items

We are accepting limited quantities of these items. Please email procurement@ows.org BEFORE you procure these items.

• Dinner Parties.  Value is limited to actual cost not to exceed $500. Please contact us if you have an idea for an event that will exceed $500. We love a good dinner party, so email us with your idea.
• Jewelry. Items over $100 must be pre-approved.
• Artwork. Paintings, prints or photographs
• Electronics. GPS Units, iPods, gaming systems and games (XBox, Playstation, Wii, etc.), cell phones, etc.
• Personal services. Face painting, storytelling, organizing parties, etc.